Posted by Raj Sahu on 2/27/13 1:38pm
Msg #458193

When clients understate number of signatures to be notarized

Client says only signature needs to be notarized- but when I reach their home/ venue of notarization I discover there are ( usually) more signatures that need to be notarized. I feel awkward to ask for more money ( since they either lied or didnt realize more signatures needed notarization) What should I do in such circumstances?
Also as a newer Notary, I am fearful what happens, if I ever forget to take down the info of the client's DL in my journal. Is there a penalty for omitting client's DL info in the journal. Will appreciate prudent input.. Thanks

Reply by Jessica/FL on 2/27/13 1:55pm
Msg #458202

You should consider say price per notarized signature, plus your travel fee. That way, when you get there you can give the final price. Maintaining your journal should be a top priority. The DL info is very important. Please check out the SOS CA notary Handbook.

Reply by Yoli/CA on 2/27/13 2:08pm
Msg #458205

As Jessica says, quote "$XX per notarized signature" and anything else you may be charging.

Insofar as journal, you may want to consider a set procedure. For example, when you meet with signer(s):

1. request ID;
2. review doc for completeness, number of notarizations and verbiage compliance;
3. collect fees and issue receipt;
4. fill in journal;
5. proceed to notarize; and,
6. hand signer your business card upon departure.

Reply by Pam/NM on 2/27/13 2:10pm
Msg #458206

Wishing there was a "like" button once again

Concise and intelligent response, Yoli--thanks!

Reply by Yowheelz on 2/27/13 3:04pm
Msg #458216

What I do when I accidently leave my journal home

put information on the confirmation and have borrower sign it. When I get home I fill out the journal and on the signature line I write "on file." The confirmation is then kept in a secure place until I retire the journal then I attach them to the journal.

Reply by Raj Sahu on 2/27/13 3:22pm
Msg #458223

Re: What I do when I accidently leave my journal home

Is that acceptable under CA laws?-- although I must say that's a brilliant solution!
All this while i was thinking -- if I dont have the journal with me- I dont notarize

Reply by JanetK_CA on 2/27/13 3:44pm
Msg #458232

No, it's NOT acceptable under CA law

I've noticed that you have asked many questions here over the last few days which are clearly answered in your SOS notary handbook. I suggest you take a few days off and go back and thoroughly re-study that material before you take any more assignments. Those aren't the types of questions that should be brought to this board. If you have a NP commission in this state, you're expected to know that material. The consequences for a lack of compliance can add up to significant financial penalties, loss of commission and/or even jail time!

Once you know that information, then feel free to ask questions here - after using the orange search button on the home page of this forum first, because nearly everything has already been asked at least once. For example, your question about people having more docs to notarize than they told you about is a legitimate question (if you couldn't find answers from a search).

And on that point, I think that most people don't know how to tell what needs to be notarized and what doesn't. So I do the same as the others and quote the notary fees separately from anything else. And sometimes I also tell people that the travel/service fee will apply whether or not we're able to complete the notarization. That depends on the type of client. If I'm going to a board and care facility or if there are any issues relative to the competence of the signer, I will get into that, but don't usually for a business client (although maybe I should...) I also discuss the need for proper ID and let them know that the document must be complete, except for the signature and notary certificate.

One more thing... When it comes to taking advice about notary procedures, etc. on this board, be very careful when it comes to advice from people from different states. What is acceptable - even required - varies greatly from one state to the next.

Reply by Raj Sahu on 2/27/13 3:27pm
Msg #458227

Outstanding! Thanks Yoli and everone else who take time out to help fellow notaries on this splendid forum

Reply by Calnotary on 2/27/13 3:02pm
Msg #458215

I think there is a $ 2500.00 dollar fine if you failed to get a thumprint on a real estate loan transaction. I have to run to my appt but check your handbook.

Reply by KODI/CA on 2/27/13 3:12pm
Msg #458218

You are absolutely correct Calnotary.

Reply by Lee/AR on 2/27/13 3:16pm
Msg #458220

Assuming you're talking General Notary Work--yes?

If so, Yoli gave you very good advice on procedure. I will add that this is a common problem. And, trust me, they lied~~ uh...misstated. Also, unless you can take credit cards, tell them that exact cash is needed prior to work being performed. You will find that you'll frequently be presented with $100 bill and they hope you can't make change and so it'll be a freebie. Put a lot of thought into this before you grab your stamp and run.

Reply by Stephanie Santiago on 2/27/13 3:42pm
Msg #458230

Excellent advice, Lee. n/m

Reply by Carolyn Bodley on 2/27/13 3:50pm
Msg #458236

If for loan docs, you don't ask the borrowers to

pay you additional money at the table

Reply by Shan/CA on 2/27/13 11:22pm
Msg #458338

Re: Assuming you're talking General Notary Work--yes?

I carry a counterfeit pen inside of my briefcase, along with that, I keep change!